Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah orders probe into Solid Waste Management firm’s works; no deadline set

BENGALURU: Chief minister Siddaramaiah has directed the urban development department to conduct a detailed probe into the alleged irregularities committed by Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) in the works it has executed.
Siddaramaiah issued the direction on June 17, in the backdrop of a complaint filed by former mayor PR Ramesh about the alleged fraud. According to sources, Ramesh alleged in his complaint to Siddaramaiah and deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar that the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP)had started six solid waste management units at a cost of Rs 468 crore in 2015. But the units were defunct owing to lack of maintenance. The Palike started disposing of solid waste unscientifically by dumping it at private units, roadsides and under flyovers. It spent more than Rs 1,100 crore for such unproductive methods in violation of the National Green Tribunal and Solid Waste Management Rules of 2016, he alleged.
Ramesh said the government started BSWML in 2021 for collecting, transporting and managing solid waste generated in the city. BBMP and BSWML floated tenders to set up three solid waste transfer stations at each SWM unit. BSWML had given a work order to a private firm that allegedly violated rules. The officials concerned, however, released Rs 13.5 crore as advance to the same firm, violating government directions.
Siddaramaiah directed the urban development department to cancel the work orders issued by BSWML and the ongoing tender process immediately.
While asking for a report, the CM, however, didn’t fix any deadline to complete the investigation.